[center][h1][b]Trigger Warning[/b][/h1] Vomit [/center] [hider=Afterparty Aftermath part 1: A fleeting pancakes dream][center][h1][color=00aeef][b]Kazumin Nagasa [/b][/color][/h1] [img] https://i.postimg.cc/nr7RFrZp/705180d7-9a87-4496-9b09-a1eaec19a979.png [/img] [/center] Time: 9:00 AM Location: Park Interactions: N/A Mentions: Persephone(percy) [@Potter] (too many to list all lol} [hr] [color=silver] Kazu's eyes opened and a delighted gasp of wonder flowed from his lips as his eyes lit up with sparkles as he beheld the sights around him."[color=00aeef] Yeessss, my dreams have come true![/color]" He exclaimed and spun around taking in the land of breakfast surrounding him. All about was a wide field with trees banking it and all of it made of food and food of the breakfast variety. Trees of golden-brown hash-browns that were certain to let out a faint crunch if one were to rub their hands along the flaky bark and branches tipped with toast leaves. Those just budding were white while ones cooking beneath the sunny egg crackling in the sky gradually browned then darkened to eventually become black were they not picked. And to the right he could see a river of thickly sweet purple jam slowly oozing along while bacon and sausage cattails swayed all about for easy pickings. In the distance massive mountains of pancakes and waffles loomed with syrupy clouds floated and drifted in the sky. He could see what he thought to be insects at first until some flittered by to witness the pleasant sight of what looked to be a wafflefly (dragonflies with waffle wings) and literal butterflies (butterflies that are literal balls of butter and butter shaped wings) flapping all around.” [color=00aeef]Everyone told me it wasn’t real, but I knew it! I fucking knew it![/color]” The blonde farmer wept with pure joy and delight as he ran and frolicked around like an excited child given free reign at a candy store. (though candy store completely paled in comparison to such a magical land) The next few minutes were spent partaking and enjoyed the delectable treats offered; taking bites from a hash-brown tree and chomping down at strips of bacon and sausage while dipping them in the jam river with some toast for some crunchy sweetness. A place he never wanted to leave and it only got better from here as he soon heard laughter and cheers that drew Kazu’s attention. Sounds of joy that easily lured the farmer munching away at jammed toast luring him to skip over the hills revealing all his friends both old and new and even his family reveling in a splendorous feast that these lands offered in endless supply.” [color=00aeef]You’re all here! Whoo![/color]” He exclaimed, unable to contain his enthusiasm as he ran almost a full sprint to join them only to finish the last stretch of the hill tumbling and rolling down, thankfully the ground was soft and springy like fluffy pancakes. His tumble did bring a round of laughter from the group of people he knew well and often drank and scrapped with at the tavern, even stinky Ted was among them and no one liked stinky Ted, but still he was happy to see the filthy blighter. Waving to them from the ground as they lifted mugs filled with milk or orange as if giving thanks for the laugh as they, like everyone feasted on an assortment of breakfast foods. Kazu pushed himself up into a sitting position to take a look around at all the faces and for everyone he recognized had him brimming with happiness. His parents and eight siblings enjoying themselves like they were at a picnic though most surprising was seeing even Asteroth eating with them alongside Sasha.” [color=00aeef]Hey everyone! I’ve missed you so much![/color]” He called out with a wave, a mixture of giddiness and homesickness welled up in him; quickly using his arm to wipe the tears from his eyes not wanting to let something this magical dour his mood as he knew they were ok and would see them again soon. Turning his head where he started noticing those he had met recently like John and Thea who were having a friendly chat as they ate though Thea was drinking a bottle of wine but looked to be enjoying herself. Mayet could be seen lounging against a somewhat more cartoony Nala, both being fed and pampered by faceless servants as Mayet had her weapon draped casually along her left side. Even while relaxing she gave off such a strong and intimidating presence as she waved to him, even Nala waved her paw albeit in a more reserved manner which he returned with a laugh. Still laughing when he saw Charlotte atop a blanket with a butter candle melting beneath its flame. He saw her giving pancakes to comfort a sobbing Crystal. A pang of guilt pulled at his heart that made him want to go over to hug and apologize to the sweet woman, but a feeling that told him to leave her be for now and could only a muster a sad smile while the gentle smile from Charlotte promising things were ok helped soften the pang in his heart. Maybe later he could make things up for her. Continuing to look around when he saw Zarai and this time would be taken aback upon seeing the battered state of her face. He could only blink in shock and disbelief at how she just sat there against a tree casually smoking at her blunt and pulling chunks from the tree giggling as if she had not noticed or cared about the painful state of her face. He wanted to feel bad but couldn’t help but laugh again as he waved to her. Who would blow smoke in his direction with a wink which almost looked to have been in the shape of a heart? He couldn’t be certain, a quizzical look shaping his face. Scratching at his head, unsure of why Zarai was all banged up but she seemed to be enjoying herself so there was no point in dwelling on it, even if the whole thing was weird. Thankfully his confusion wouldn’t last long as he caught sight of Anastasia twirling around giggling with a bunch of butterflies flapping about and landing on her and for a moment felt the urge to join her where they could spin around until he took notice of Wulfric. The princess' less than friendly brother sat off to the side keeping watch though whether it was for protective purpose with Ani or to make sure said sister didn’t do anything embarrassing he couldn’t say. He felt a familiar chill after looking at the icy prince, but he still gave a friendly wave, Wulfric paying him no mind, but Ani waved back with both hands like an overly excited child before a bunch of butterflies flew onto her face making her burst into a fit of giggles. Then from a small hill he took notice of two figures stepping into view and felt his heart skip and eyes dampen at the sight of Percy and Ruby. Without noticing having done so he was already bounding towards the two and jumped at them to pull both against him in a crushing hug filled with emotions. His heart ached both in sad longing and elated happiness at seeing the two most important to him.” Now everything really is perfect.” He whispered, tears streaking down his cheeks. Sounds of panting could be heard as Ruby’s brother, Jack came running up the hill out of breath having lagged behind with the huge plate of pancakes piled like a tall tower the culprit.” S-sorry. Whew…had to make sure to get enough for all of us!” The sight of Jack out of breath and red face with all those pancakes had Kazu laughing.” [color=00aeef]Yes! Let us feast together till our bellies burst![/color]” He exclaimed in agreement; excited to share this feast with those he loved.” Doesn’t that sound great?” Percy gave that cheeky smile he never thought he might see again as she suddenly flicked him hard on the forehead.” [color=00aeef]Ow! I get you’re happy to see me too, but there’s a better way to say hi.[/color]” Rubbing at his forehead which was strangely stinging more than expected from a simple flick. “ [color=00aeef]How about you, Ruby? Not in a cheeky mood like Percy is for some reason.[/color]” Sticking his tongue out at Percy before turning his attention towards Ruby only to have her flicking him on the forehead this time. “ [color=00aeef]Ow! Come on, this isn’t funny. This is the first time we’re all together so can’t we just have fun together and eat?[/color]” He asked through grimaced teeth, his head suddenly feeling like it was pounding like beating drums. The two looked at each other and giggled as both lifted their hands…. FLICK! [hr] Kazu woke up with a start with a weak gasp only to have his eyes burning as if a pair of heated brands were pressed onto them. Sunlight cooked his immensely sensitive eyes, certain to make him shed tears if he had any water to shed. His heavily blurred vision slowly became accustomed to the scalding light to take notice of a blurry figure looming over him. A figure that steadily came into view; one his fried and dehydrated brain came to recognize to be…[url=https://i.postimg.cc/WprXJDLP/Ezio-Auditore-Da-Firenze-full-1113230-1.jpg] Asteroth? [/url] The man looming was indeed Asteroth who stood there glaring down at his young ward currently huddled beneath a park bench. His bearded face is an expression of utter disappointment and anger.” [color=ed1c24]So you are alive after all. And here I had hoped I could begin a search for a less disappointing ward[/color].” His voice was low and cool that dripped acid and disgust as he lifted the cane that had been prodded against his now reddened forehead. “[color=00aeef] W-wuh..I..where…[/color]” He tried to speak, but the words leaving his cracked lips came out hoarse and raspy with his throat feeling scratchy like sandpaper. Any attempt to gulp earned him the uncomfortable taste of cotton and iron or to make sense of where he was a painful pang to his head which felt like a bog of thick molasses that was being battered by bats of a most painful splitting headache and dry hangover. He felt impossibly dizzy and sick but upon waking did waves of intense soreness and aches wrack through nearly every inch of his body. Even his nose ached with every inhale like glass being shoved up his nostrils, having him guess it was either broken or had been dislocated which he hoped to be the latter. Asteroth could tell that the cowlicked blonde was struggling to make sense of everything, but he lacked the patience to wait for him to gather his bearings. Hard to be when there was a pancake party currently taking place which had a fair number of people gathered who were certain to see the embarrassingly pathetic display of his hungover ward.”[color=ed1c24] You’ve had enough of making yourself look like an absolute fool. Now get up.[/color]” He harshly whispered the demand just enough for the dazed Kazu to hear wanting to avoid to have this pitiful display before him seen by as few people as possible. The man’s words were like daggers to his battered brain, the harsh and hushed tone signaling to the hungover farmer that he was in a heap of trouble. The slow electrical signals eventually told him to do as he was told. If only the rest of him was capable of doing what his mind wanted. It was as if the mind and body were disconnected enabling him to do nothing more than give a pathetically limp lift of his shoulder before giving up with an exhausted grunt. “[color=ed1c24] I said get up![/color]” Asteroth harshly barked through gritted teeth as he slammed the bottom of his cane against Kazu’s forehead once more. A strike that brought out a long, low pained groan barely above that of a tiny whimper as the blonde lacked the strength to do anything else or really anything. He could do nothing but lie on his side staring at the black dress shoe lying next to his face, the tip seemingly bearing bite marks and spit. This explained the hint of leather mixing with the taste of cotton and blood. After seeing that even such a blow could not get the blonde to budge Asteroth could tell he was incapable of moving right now. But leaving him here was not an option, not when he had an appointment that skipping simply was not a possibility.” [color=ed1c24]Very well. Hugo, if you can please pick up this drunk imbecile.[/color]” Ordered the baron with a wary wave of the hand with a matching sigh. [url=https://static.zerochan.net/Shukuri.Akito.full.2247700.jpg] Hugo [/url], house Hugonin and Asteroth’s personal knight and bodyguard had been standing nearby to the left at the ready for when he would be needed had stepped forward after being given the order. The blue haired knigt peered down at Kazu with pity then let out a sigh before squatting down.” [color=1a7b30]Apologies, Mr. Nagasa.[/color]” Said with whatever bit of respect he could muster which was scant, but more than any his lord had to give for his ward. Slipping his hand under the blonde’s arm and with a less than gentle pull had lifted up from beneath the bench and onto his feet. Or at least attempted to before Kazu’s body went limp and slumped down, sure to collapse back to the ground were it not for Hugo’s hold of his arms. This left the knight having to hold the man to his side; a good thing he was a trained man and Kazu’s lithe body weighed so little. And the act of doing so had Kazu let out a whimpering groan of pain that throbbed throughout like he just received an awful shock. Now held up and no longer obscured by the bench, the state of Kazu was revealed in full. And the saying not a pretty sight was putting it lightly and inadequately. With his face all bruised and swollen, both eyes sporting bright purple shiners and shadows that would be visible were it not for said shiners and the nose along with the skin around it all puffy and red with a very faint hesitant whistling from the nostrils speckled with blood. In fact, there was a fair bit of blood both from the two streaks running down those dried, cracked lips and down his chin as a clear indication of nosebleed yet the blots of blood staining his chests gave credence to the possibility of having coughed up blood. Whatever wasn’t covered in blood on his upper body showed more bruises and knuckle marks, the obvious tell-tale signs of fighting. Never had Asteroth seen a man in such a sorry sight such as this.” [color=ed1c24]Good lord. Just what on earth did you get up to? Whatever it was, I hope you don’t consider any of it worth it as..well just look at you.[/color]” The baron could only gaze at the man with baffling disbelief. Kazu could feel the baron’s scathing gaze burning into him with eyes that might have any other withering with shame beneath the blinding spotlights. Only for him to respond with hoarse incoherent mumbling as his head hung as he even lacked the strength to lift his head. Unable to get a word of what the farmer said and reached forward to grab a handful of his hair somehow also speckled with bits of dried scarlet and lifted.” Do you lack even a modicum of sense? Or any hint of self control?!” He huffed, releasing his hold letting Kazu’s head slump back down.”[color=ed1c24] It is a mercy that none from your family are not here to see you like this. I can only ima-[/color]” Stopping mid-sentence as he sniffed at the air picking up a familiar salty scent prompting him to glance down where he took notice of the unmistakable drying stain of urine.”[color=ed1c24] Did..did you soil yourself?[/color]” He stared incredulously, unable to believe what he was seeing; a look of disgust etched his face as he gave a shake of the head. “[color=ed1c24] How an absolute drunken buffoon like you has survived to such an age is one of great mystery. You should be ashamed to not have crawled into some ditch and spare all of us your downright embarrassing presence.[/color]” He spat to the side to alleviate the distaste and disgust on his tongue where he then saw how the knees of his pants were torn and badly scraped leading him to inspect Kazu’s palms to also find them badly scraped raw and fingertips stained black. Signs he had been crawling, likely for hours and upon closer inspection could see more signs of scrapes running down his chest, even his stomach.” [color=ed1c24]What the hell happened? Did someone do this to you?[/color]” This time speaking in a tone not out of anger or disgust but one of concern. Had someone gotten this young man drunk then tortured him. Every cruel and berating word from Asteroth stung and hurt, merely adding onto the abysmal way he felt. All disoriented and incapable of getting a bearing on anything as he felt sick, nauseous while his stomach was unsettled and gurgled with wicked promise. It was taking a fair bit of effort just to remain conscious enough to focus on the Baron’s scrutinizing though half of it sounding muffled that became lost in his hazy, fuddled mind. He did catch the last of what Asty said and put forth whatever bit of energy he could muster to weakly lift his head up to look up into the bearded man’s face and opened his mouth to respond. [hider= Kazu ensues to empty the contents of his stomach repeatedly in almost comical fashion] Instead of words, chunks of vomit sprayed forth as his head dropped, unloading a whole bucket worth onto the ground leaving a sizable puddle. The unexpected projectile of sick forced Asteroth to step back reeling in disgust but before he could even try to get a word out Kazu let loose another bout of puke, this happening three more times before his stomach was finally tapped and empty.[/hider] “ [color=ed1c24]Are you quite finished?! Or do you intend to dirty the entire park and ruin this pancake party for everyone?![/color]” He spat out, his face flushed with anger once more now hinted with disgust as he pulled out his handkerchief to cover his mouth and nose while avoiding the huge puddle of rank and yet through it all, Hugo maintained his hold lest he let Kazu fall onto his own sick. The knight was kind enough to shift and step back to have both their feet avoiding it as well All the upheaving left Kazu even more tired if that were possible and the taste of bile joining cotton and iron. But strangely it did relieve some of the immense weight weighing him down. And helped to clear up his mind enough to finally notice the sweet smell of pancakes in the air. A smile came to his cracked lips.” [color=00a99d]Pancakes. Fuck..I could go for some pancakes.[/color]” Asteroth blinked with stupendous awe.”[color=ed1c24] The buffoon finally speaks and the only thing he can think to say is wanting pancakes?![/color]” The man growled in frustration rubbing at his forehead followed shortly be an agitated sigh.”[color=ed1c24] Oh yes. By all means, go ahead and have your fill.[/color]” Holding his left arm out to the side to motion he was free to do so..that is if he was able to. The allure of sweet, fluffy goodness and butter would have had him salivating were he not so dehydrated. A small nod of his head to what the Baron said, completely missing the obvious sarcastic tone in his words.” [color=00a99d]Really? Thanks![/color]” He replied in a pained hoarse tone and strained to even lift his right foot and continued to do so for a minute before letting his body slump in defeat.” [color=00a99d]Ugh…Hugo. Mind being a bro and dragging me to the pancakes? I’ll give ya a cup of pudding from my stash.[/color]” Turning his attention to the table littered with all sorts of toppings offering all sorts of possible delicious combinations to which he weakly lifted up his right arm holding up two fingers.”[color=00a99d] Make it two pudding cups, yeah?[/color]” Turning to look at the knight holding him up with pleading eyes. For Kazu to actually offer trade of his pudding gave clear indication of how badly and determined he was to get the pancakes. This left Hugo uncertain and looking to his lord on how to proceed from here. “ [color=ed1c24]I’m afraid there is no time for pancakes and certainly not for drunken imbeciles that disrespect these public lands with his own throw up. Besides, you have an important appointment in less than three hours and I will not have you arriving in such a pitiful state. God forbid what the count would do if we keep him waiting due to your tardiness.[/color]” Hearing this had Kazu tilting his head in a quizzical manner.” [color=00a99d]Count? Anoint…aportmat…appootmart…[/color]” Gave up trying to pronounce the word after his tongue kept stumbling multiple times and just let himself hang onto Hugo in defeat. Shaking his head while partly turning away.”[color=ed1c24] Enough of this tomfoolery. We have wasted too much time as it is. Ser Hugo, help get this oaf to the carriage then do something about..this mess as I do not wish to have unhappy visitors coming to my estate stating their displeasure.[/color]” Motioning towards the mess on the ground before turning away in full then headed off towards the carriage. “[color=00a99d] Nuuuuuuuuuuuu…please just one…Hugo please…shove it into my mouth if you have to..I beg of you!.[/color]” He attempted to plead the knight in a loud, attention grabbing voice but could only muster up a weak pleading whisper as he had no choice but to let himself be carried off after the Baron. “[color=00a99d] Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy….what cruel fate is this…[/color]” Slumping his head back over his shoulder to glimpse the delicious fluffy treat. So close and within reach yet might as well be as unreachable as the moon.” [color=00a99d]Pa-han-han-cakes.[/color]” He let out breathy little sobs as they went. He was still sobbing by the time they had reached the carriage as the driver had hopped down after seeing their approach and made to open the door. Asteroth stopped short and stepped aside.”[color=ed1c24] Get this useless sack inside then be quick with dealing with his mess. And if able bring him a bucket of water. His hoarse voice is grating on the ears.[/color]” The one and only bit of kindness he was likely to receive from the baron. “ [color=1a7b30]Of course. I will do my best, my lord. Come, Mr. Nagasa. Once home you will be cleaned up and taken care of.[/color]” The knight offered the small bit of comfort as he could see the dejected Kazu was in good need of it, kind words Asteroth felt was undeserved which he let be known with an audible hmph. Up the steps and into the carriage the cowlicked blonde was carried like a ragdoll where he was soon deposited onto the wide seat.” [color=1a7b30]Behave and you may be able to enjoy pancakes later.[/color]” He said, doubting evidence in his voice but wanted to help give the man already beaten down enough some bit of hope. He was gonna need it with the upsetting news to be revealed to him shortly. With a comforting pat to his shoulder, Hugo left Kazu in the carriage lying on his seat.”[color=1a7b30] I’ll try to be back as quickly as possible, my lord.[/color]” “[color=ed1c24] Mhm, good and be sure to extend apologies in my estate’s name for my ward’s drunken rudeness.[/color]” Giving his guard an approving nod before making his way into the carriage joining his dejected and sick ward. “ [color=ed1c24]I will not have you pouting like a child. Now up.[/color]” Nudging at the blonde’s foot with his cane as he gave the suggestion. One that Kazu ignored and remained on his side staring idly into space. Being denied pancakes was one cruel too many when he was still trying to work out what even happened or how he found himself like this. “ [color=ed1c24]I said, sit up! You are an adult for pity’s sake and this pitiful state and the sneaking off drinking with reckless abandon are all actions on your own part. All this you have yourself to blame because you lack any tact of restraint or the current situation you are in![/color]” He growled out, letting out the fury he had been holding in but no longer having need to now that they were out from the eyes and ears of the public.” [color=ed1c24]I have watched you do nothing but make a fool of yourself last night and I pray to the heavens my regret I did not grab you by the scuff and drag you out after you stepped out in front of the entire concession and for what? To tell some nonsensical blathering story?![/color]” Jabbing the butt of his cane against his chest, certain to add another bruise.”[color=ed1c24] Have you forgotten what our own king is like? Nor had you any idea of the sultan’s temperament..they could have had you locked up in some dank cell or landing yourself on a noose were the king in such a mood. By some miracle you and that damn duke found the Sultan to be incessantly merciful. That damn duke..I swear the two of you could be mistaken to be related![/color]” He slumped back, face buried in his right hand exasperated after spouting that long tirade, rubbing at his eyes in vainful attempt at holding back a budding headache. Kazu had no choice but to be subjected to the onslaught of berating insults and reminders of just how narrowly he avoided ending up another hanging decoration to Edin’s collection. He closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths; no longer having thoughts of pancakes to instead think of the night’s events and indeed the baron was correct. Everything he did he did as if he had been back home among his fellow commoners when in fact he was in a hall not only filled with nobles but of the royal families from the three largest kingdoms. He felt immeasurable guilt for most, but not all of it. Dancing with princess Anastasia was a memory he would forever cherish. For all people she could have chosen she chose the sad idiot that just made a woman cry and broke a promise on top of that. The only thing he regretted and would be sure to amend yet all the wonderfully interesting people he met and hoped to get to know more of and a most cherished friendship thought lost rekindled made all the horrible aches, pains and sickness he was going through worth it. Now if only he could remember just what in the hell left him like this. “ [color=ed1c24]You seem to enjoy trying my patience. I will ask only once more. Sit up.[/color]” The cane still held against his chest dug in, making Kazu wince in pain until he relented, letting the Baron watch as he strained and pushed himself into a sitting position that left him winded and panting heavily.” [color=ed1c24]Do not think I enjoy being so needlessly cruel but you have forcing my hand and left me little option. You clearly lack the full severity and scope of what your actions have wrought. Do you recall the woman I so foolishly recommend you dance with? A huge mistake on my part.[/color]” Exhaling heavily through his nose as he studied the exhausted blonde screwing his face up in confusion. Like the baron in front of him he let loose a heavy, but slower exhale as he lifted his hands to his nose and gave a quick twist. A faint crunch and yelp of pain followed by a sigh of relief after having finished properly resetting his nose alieving him some pain.” [color=00a99d]You don’t have to talk to me like I’m an idiot. Mi- Lady Crystal is one of the few from last night I wouldn’t forget even if I tried.[/color]” Giving his answer while rubbing at his mouth trying to scrape off some of the dried blood. An answer that had Asteroth scoffing.” O[color=ed1c24]h? But the boy sitting across from me is indeed an idiot and a most foolhardy one at that. Do you recall the invitation extended to you last night? Think boy![/color]” Jabbing his right index finger roughly against Kazu’s forehead as if to jog his memories. A bit of jogging he needed as that was a moment of which to be foggy though nothing like the dense fog surrounded this afterparty. With his last memory of clarity being of him dancing and singing in the streets, being picked up and something about Chavez and a mask?” [color=00a99d]You keep talking about some appointment or invitation or..whatever. And this count…I..[/color]” Now it was his turn to rub at his forehead which continued to pound away making it difficult to keep his thoughts collected. Not the answer the baron wanted and opened his mouth and nearly started another tirade had the door not opened with Hugo stepping through holding a bucket nearly filled to the brim with water.”[color=1a7b30] I’ve taken care of the mess and given appropriate apologies, my lord.[/color]” Hugo spoke through pants having worked fast as his legs could carry leaving even one so trained like him a bit winded. Before Asteroth could get a word in, Kazu had swiped the bucket from Hugo’s hands with strength born from a great need for the elixir of life. He guzzled the water down in heaping gulps like that of a man dying of thirst as some splashed out soaking his bloodied and bruised face. Each large gulp and draw of the bucket renewed his empty body running on fumes with vigor and life. It was merely water, but for him this was the drink of the gods that not even the sweetest ambrosia could ever hope to match and at one point might have seemed he were shedding tears or merely the water splashing out dripping down his abrasion cheek. A bucket of a good five pounds that had been full was drained in a manner of seconds. Pulling the bucket away from his drenched face now mostly clean of blood now.” [color=00a99d]Bloody fucking hell is this shit good! Hugo if I could move my legs I’d get up and kiss you full on the lips right now![/color]” He exclaimed in jubilant relief his voice no longer hoarse though still a bit raspy. “ [color=598527]Right…well I see that Mr. Nagasa has finally been revived. Is there anything else you need from me, my lord?[/color]” For the moment Asteroth remained silent. Both intrigued and at a loss of how something simple as water could reinvigorate the young man whom looked close to death only moments ago. And with it that usual cheeky and foul mouthed uncouth manner. As if things rarely kept him down for long before he was moving on. “ [color=ed1c24]No, that will be all. Thank you for your service, Ser Hugo. Tell the driver to set off to the estate.[/color]” Giving the man a respectful dismissal of which Hugo gave a small bow of his head then exited the carriage, taking the now empty bucket with him which Kazu thanked him before he departed. Alone once more the baron sat up and leaned forward resting both hands on the top of his cane adorned with a silver top in the shape of a falcon with sapphire eyes.” [color=ed1c24]To answer and remind you. Count Calbert, Lady Damien’s father. The one person whose ire most would say to be worse to gain than even the king. The very same person who you went and gravely insulted by scaring his daughter to tears.[/color]” Keeping a calm yet cold expression as he gave the reminder and with it saw the recollection of the name the servant that approached him had given alongside the invitation.”[color=f7976a] Damn you, mr. Nagasa. It is as if you chose to actively make things harder for me. You might as well have gone and strolled up to King Edin or the vizier and slapped them while you’re at it.[/color]” He let out an exasperated groan while pinching the bridge of his nose. Listening to the baron explain while fighting to keep his composure in check and the words did make him feel bad. Yet, the memory of the vizier tumbling to the ground and thoughts of doing such a thing made it a challenge to keep an amused grin from forming on his lips. A challenge he failed for Asteroth took notice of his grin.”[color=ed1c24] You find this amusing do you? I suppose a meager peasant would not know of the count’s cruelty and deceptions. A deadly viper that hides in plain sight, one who finds themselves unlucky to be caught within his fangs will find it nigh impossible to free themselves of.[/color]” Observing as he tried to get it into his head just how much of a perilous and dangerous situation he now found himself in.” [color=ed1c24]You are in his sights now. Both you and that whorish criminal of a friend of yours.[/color]” Said while prodding the cane against his chest in mocking fashion. Since the moment Kazu had woken he felt a number of things and while his body ached something awful and the fact his head felt like it was struck by metal bats. Even being denied pancakes and berated; none of it really bothered him all that much as this was a normal Tuesday for him, albeit cranked up from a 10 to a 12 in this instance. All of his insults and harsh statements that were true he simply nodded to. But the moment he uttered that slight to Percy and his hand shot up grabbing the silver tipped bottom as that cheeky smile and all hints of amusement or joy melted away from his face. Asteroth gave a few attempts to pull the cane free, each try stronger than the previous yet found that the cane did not budge even an inch. A grip he soon saw leaving small dents in the silver as he laid witness to something he had yet to experience from Kazumin. Anger. Pure anger and nothing like the forced nonsensical rage brought upon by some magical concoction. This was seething and with such intensity that he swore the warmth were sucked from the carriage until nothing but a deadly chill remained that left him, a man that fought battles of life and death many times. Yet, those eyes once filled with humor and joy were devoid of anything, empty. The eyes of a man ready to throw their lives away to do whatever it was he was determined to do. The baron opened his mouth to speak only to hear the faint crunch of metal caused by Kazu’s grip tightening. A signal to keep silent. “ [color=00a99d]Take it back.[/color]” He whispered in a voice so cold even Wulfric would find chilling. “[color=ed1c24] I..what?[/color]” [b]Crunch.[/b] His grip tightened even more to the point of cracks forming around the indented metal. “ [color=00a99d]I said, [b]take…it…back.[/b][/color]” Exhaling the words like a cold mist from his damp lips. Glaring icicles at the man who sat there with a confused expression, unsure of what it was his ward was referring to. “ [color=00a99d]You can insult me. Beat me. Ridicule, berate me to your heart’s content. You can deny me food and take my pudding and my booze to starve for days. Take my dignity and freedom..all and everything I do not care what you do to me.[/color]” He spoke through gritted teeth, each word dripping more and more poison than the last as those almond brown eyes burn white yet gave no heat. “[color=00a99d] But I will not stand by when anyone insults my family and especially when you insult Percy. I don’t give a damn if its a baron, viscount or count or even the fucking king. I [u][b]*will*[/b][/u] make those who dare to even try to slight her name or touch a single hair on her head pay and no amount of money or swords would stand in my way. This isn’t a threat…or some vague attempt at being subtle. This is a promise.[/color]” Speaking without budging an inch even when the carriage hit a rock that had the carriage and Asteroth jostling, his body remained still like stone. Again his grip tightened; any further and the bottom half of the cane would shatter beneath his monstrous grip honed from a lifetime of manual labor and strength that belied the lithe farmer’s body. “ [color=00a99d]Now I will ask only once more. Take back your slight on Percy’s name or our arrangement be damned. I will be sure that tongue never disrespects my friend or any lady’s honor. [u][b]*Do…you…understand me.*[/b][/u][/color]” Enunciating each of his last words, the demonstration of his grip a promise of what would surely follow and while Kazu was not a killer he would do just enough to make sure this baron never spoke foul of his most cherished friend or any woman. The next few minutes would be left in uncomfortable silence, the tension in the air palpable and thick enough to cut with a butter knife. Asteroth had tried to respond a number of times but each time the words got caught in his throat as if this faux harmless farmless left it frozen through such bone chilling words. Words that he absolutely meant. After what felt like an eternity when only five minutes had passed did Asteroth finally gather enough strength to clear his throat against his fist.”[color=ed1c24] Yes, ahem. Perhaps I have been..too hasty in my assessments and jumped to conclusions after having learned of such news. On behalf of your lady friend I, Baron Asteroth wholeheartedly apologizes for the slight I have wrongfully placed on her honor.[/color]” Asteroth was one known for his bravery and yet his voice was shaky as he afforded Percy the apology and meant it, whether or not she deserved it remained to be seen. One thing this baron has learned about Kazumin? He was undyingly loyal to those he seemed to cherish. Shortly the apology was given, the chill seemed to ebb and the warmth of summer filled the carriage once more. Kazu’s face, once hard and cold as icy stone, softened though it maintained a small portion of icy fire he previously gave off.”[color=00a99d] Thank you.[/color]” His grip on the cane released, leaving the bottom of it nearly crushed and splintered and stained red with fresh blood from having dug into his scraped palm.”[color=00a99d] You mentioned something about learning news. Show me.[/color]” He demanded curtly with furled eyebrows intending to find out the meaning behind what he said about her. Pulling the cane away; impressed at the cowliced blonde’s hidden strength and placed it down on his lap to then pick up the newspaper sitting at his side.”[color=ed1c24] Know my intentions always was to show you this. My temper had gotten away from me, costing me my composure momentarily and for that I offer apologies as well.[/color]” Offering the papers as he spoke. Hearing none of what was just said as he made to snatch the papers from his hands. Quickly scanning through the pages until he found it. Found the drawing that was unmistakably Percy and next to it her declaration as a criminal causing his blood to boil and the once sickly pale, bruised flesh of his face turned red.” [u][color=00a99d][b]Who?[/b][/color][/u]” Was all he asked and all he needed to say. “ [color=ed1c24]Know that I do not quite know for certain but whatever event that led to your friend being designated a criminal. Likely happened after the ball ended and for one to find themselves named a criminal in a mere few hours…there are only a few with power capable of doing so.[/color]” Keeping the papers held up and staring at the drawing of Percy which was so nicely drawn and yet he could not admire it. Not when its purpose was for the use of such outlandish lies.”[u][b] [color=00a99d]Who?[/color][/b][/u]” Again, all was said, this time more controlled and steady. A most strangely curious smile perked Asteroth’s lips seeing the young man in a way wholly unexpected of such a kind and aloof individual.” [color=ed1c24]I have a suspicion of the person responsible. And luckily for you we will be heading there in a few short hours.[/color]” [/color] [/hider]